The idea involves using a technique called stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), where millions of tonnes of diamond dust would be released into the stratosphere to reflect sunlight and excess heat back into space. This method is inspired by the natural cooling effects observed after volcanic eruptions, which release sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. However, sulfur dioxide has significant drawbacks, including the potential to cause acid rain, damage the ozone layer, and disrupt weather patterns.
The researchers evaluated seven different aerosol candidates, including calcite, aluminum, silicon carbide, anatase, rutile, and sulfur dioxide, using a 3D climate model. Diamond dust emerged as the most promising option due to its exceptional properties: reflectivity, stability, and chemical inertness.
